Atlanta Acting Arts is a place for actors to test their limits and dare to make mistakes. As teachers, we believe that we are facilitators. We are not looking for followers but actors who are motivated and encouraged by learning. We strive to inspire and guide students from the fundamentals of acting arts to individual coaching where professionals refine their skill set.

Mission

The Founders

The Founders

Ray Bengston

Director, photographer, actor, educator and one of the founders of Atlanta Acting Arts, Ray started his performance career in Las Vegas where he headlined in many shows ultimately being nominated "Entertainer of the Year." Afterwards, he moved to Los Angeles where he worked as an actor in various TV shows, films, commercials, and theatre. He became a noted headshot/still photographer, and has worked for top talent representatives and SAG-AFTRA for over 30 years with his company, Eyekool. As an educator, Ray is considered an actor's director. He has taught at major Hollywood studios including Warner Brothers, Disney, Dream Quest, the SAG Conservatory and AFI. He recently directed two feature films, Alone Yet Not Alone and To Have and to Hold. Currently, he is in development on several projects as well as continuing his photography, video shoots, and teaching. Ray's approach has helped many actors and he is excited to start teaching at Atlanta Acting Arts.

Barbara Divisek

One of the founders of Atlanta Acting Arts, Barbara is a highly regarded casting director whose career spans almost four decades. After studying with Lee Strasberg, she moved to Los Angeles to work at Divisek Casting joining her sister, Karen Divisek, where together they successfully cast over 4,200 projects including film, TV, commercials, industrials, voice-overs, and video games. She cast the (award-winning) film, Return to the Hiding Place. Afterwards, she then cast and produced two feature films, Alone Yet Not Alone and To Have and to Hold. Over the years, she has demonstrated her eye for talent giving many stars their first SAG-AFTRA job. Her experience as a casting director, agent, manager, producer, and acting coach has given her a thorough understanding of show business. Barbara is thrilled to be making Atlanta and Atlanta Acting Arts her new home.